Liechtenstein is a tiny country sandwiched between Switzerland and Austria in the Alps, with the river Rhine running across its western border with Switzerland, and the mountains of Austria to its east. This is the 6th smallest country in the world – with a total area of just 160sqkm and only 12km by 25km at its widest points. Two thirds of the terrain is covered in mountains, and it is sparsely populated with a population of less than 40,000. While on a work trip to Amsterdam, I decided to tack on a weekend to explore diminutive Liechtenstein. The capital Vaduz was an easy hour train ride from the neighboring Swiss capital Zurich that I flew into.

Officially the Principality of Liechtenstein – the country takes its name from the royal family of Liechtenstein, who purchased the lands that would make up the nation in the 18th century. This is an extremely wealthy nation with one of the world’s highest GDP per capita, driven by financial services and heavy industries. The official language is German, and it felt like I was visiting another canton in Switzerland rather than a separate sovereign nation.

Here are some other fun facts I learnt about Liechtenstein:
– Only country in the world named after its ruling family
– The only other doubly land locked nation, besides Uzbekistan
– One of the largest exporters of false teeth (!)
– Has not had an army since 1858
– Too tiny for an airport

Here’s a short itinerary to enjoy all the Liechtenstein has to offer, based on the 3 days I spent exploring the micro nation.

1. Walk around the tiny capital Vaduz

The capital Vaduz is situated in a valley floor along the River Rhine’s eastern banks. The diminutive nature of Vaduz makes it one of the most easily walkable capital cities in Europe. I lost count of how many times I crossed the main streets while exploring the tiny town. For most of the morning the surrounding mountains were shrouded in mist and cloud rolling in from the Swiss and Austrian sides, which only added to the alpine charm of the city.

There are also a handful of reputed museums packed within the city hall area – dedicated to philately, history, national treasures and art. I didn’t visit the museums, but instead enjoyed seeking out the eclectic art installations that were dotted across town.

2. Take a hike up to the Royal residence of Vaduz castle

Vaduz castle is precariously perched up the side of the mountain overlooking the city, and is visible from everywhere down below. For the best views of the low lying capital and sweeping views of the river Rhine snaking its way through the valley – a rather leisurely hike up to Vaduz Castle is the best bet.

Vaduz Castle was originally built in the early 12th century, and passed into the Princely family’s ownership after their purchase of the lands in the 18th century. It has been renovated over the centuries and is still the official residence of the reigning Prince Hans Adam II and his family and off limits to visitors.

3. Wine and dine like royalty at the Prince of Liechtenstein Winery

One of the highlights of my visit was a wine tasting at the royal Hofkellerei vineyards which are situated right in the city. Liechtenstein has a rich history of winemaking, believed to have started in the ancient Roman times. The royal family is deeply involved with the operations – Princess Marie is the Sommelier and ambassador for the winery. The wines are rarely exported so they are hard to find outside the principality.

My tour started in the beautiful vineyard and ended with a seated tasting in the cellar, where they served a whopping 12 different wines – truly the royal treatment. The pours included sparkling Roses and Liseccos (Liechtenstein pun on Prosecco), to a variety of delectable whites from their Austrian vineyards and reds from the Vaduz winery. I finally stumbled my way to dinner after that spirited experience…

4. Seek some solitude at the Cathedral of St Florin

Besides Vaduz Castle, another iconic symbol of Vaduz is the Cathedral of St Florin in its center., with its tall spire piercing the sky. The church was built in 1874 on the site of a former chapel from the 14th century, and is still a functioning parish church, with its melodious bells ringing out in the cool mountain air every 30 minutes.

5. Walk across an international border through the Wooden bridge on the river Rhine

The Alte Rheinbrucke (old Rhine bridge) is a covered wooden bridge spanning its namesake river, connecting the town of Sevelen on the Swiss side and Vaduz on the Liechtenstein side. The bridge was built in 1901 and is the only surviving wooden bridge over the Rhine today. It is a pedestrian and cyclists only bridge, with just a few signs demarcating the international border line, with no customs or border control officials in sight. The perfect opportunity to plant one foot in 2 countries at the same time!

6. Peel back the centuries at the Red House

Just a few minutes stroll from the Princely vineyards is another Vaduz icon – the Red House. Named after its distinctive dark red exteriors, this is one of the oldest houses here, dating almost 7 centuries back to 1338. The autumn colors of the vineyard juxtaposed against the red walls, with the looming green mountain in the background made for quite the photogenic views.

7. Sample the National dish of Kasknopfle

Given Liechtenstein’s location, the cuisine is heavily influenced by its Alpine neighbors. But it does have its own unique National dish called Kasknopfle. This hearty dish is made with flour dumplings topped with cheese and crispy shallots, and a side of apple sauce that is typically poured over everything. The Kasknopfle was super hearty and filling, and made me want to hike up to the castle again just to burn off the heavy meal!